The Initiative

On June 15, 2012, tragedy struck G4S. While performing a routine cash transfer at the University of Alberta’s HUB Mall, Travis Baumgartner fatally shot three of his coworkers, Eddie Rejano, Brian Ilesic and Michelle Shegelski, a fourth, Matthew Schuman, rushed to hospital with a gunshot wound to the head.

We wanted to know what could be done to prevent something like this from ever happening again, and as we explored, we discovered that the ripple effect of the shootings had had devastating impacts on the mental health of those involved, as well as their families, friends and colleagues.

The problem is clear, but the solution is ignored. Not everyone with mental health issues is violent, but one in five Canadians experience mental health issues in their lives. There has been stigma and silence surrounding mental health in the past, but there is no time like the present to speak up, make noise, and affect positive change. This initiative aims to bring together public figures, policy makers and politicians to tackle this issue and create a solution; ultimately, our goal is that mental health support becomes mandatory in every workplace. Let’s break down the barriers of silence surrounding mental health, allowing for a healthier and safer workforce, and resulting in the peace of mind that everyone can go home to their families every night.

In the spirit of solidarity, we need your help. If we make enough noise, they will have to listen. If we stand together, we can inspire change. #makeitmandatory

Let’s just have a requirement that no matter where you work you are required, every employer in this country is required, to have a mental health awareness program.